AQABA & THE RED SEA COAST
Aqaba and the Red Sea coast form a sun-drenched sanctuary on Jordan’s southern edge, celebrated for its kaleidoscopic coral reefs, dramatic desert mountains, and the ancient allure of a historic port.
This region seamlessly blends world-class diving and modern luxury with the timeless heritage of a storied crossroads.
Most Popular Attractions
Aqaba City Core & Heritage:
Aqaba Archaeological Museum: Housed in the former residence of Sharif Hussein bin Ali, displaying artifacts from the 7th millennium BC up to the Islamic era.
Aqaba Fort (Mamluk Fort): A historic fortress dating back to the Mamluk period, famous as the site of a key victory during the Arab Revolt.
Sharif Hussein bin Ali Mosque: Aqaba’s main mosque, a prominent and beautiful architectural landmark in the city center.
Souk by the Sea: The bustling local market, offering spices, traditional clothing, and souvenirs, giving a feel for local life.
Ayla Ruins: The site of the ancient Islamic city of Ayla, predating modern Aqaba, with ruins of a city wall, gates, and towers.
Bird Watching: The surrounding wetlands and habitats near Aqaba are a crucial stopover point for migratory birds between Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Flagpole of Aqaba: The world’s fifth-tallest free-standing flagpole, flying the flag of the Arab Revolt, visible from miles away.
Downtown Aqaba: Exploring the central area for its traditional restaurants, cafes, and duty-free shops.
Red Sea Marine Attractions:
Diving at Cedar Pride Wreck: A popular dive site featuring a sunken cargo ship deliberately scuttled to create an artificial reef.
Snorkeling in the Marine Park: Exploring the protected areas of the Aqaba Marine Park for pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Japanese Garden Dive Site: Known for its vibrant coral gardens, turtles, and diverse fish species, ideal for both diving and snorkeling.
The Tank Wreck: A unique underwater site featuring a scuttled US military tank, now an excellent artificial reef for divers.
King Abdullah Reef: A easily accessible site from the shore, known for its deep-water corals and marine biodiversity.
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: An excellent option for non-divers to view the spectacular coral and fish life without getting into the water.
Coastline & Beach Recreation:
South Beach (Yemeni Beach): The most popular beach area for locals and tourists, known for its clear water and access to marine park sites.
Tala Bay Resort Area: A modern, purpose-built development offering marinas, luxury hotels, and private beaches south of the city.
Berenice Beach Club: A well-equipped, private beach offering pools, restaurants, and water sports facilities.
Royal Yacht Club: Located in the city, offering a view of the marina and sometimes hosting sailing events.
Desert & Nearby Excursions:
Wadi Rum Day Trip: Organizing a jeep or camel excursion to the famous ‘Valley of the Moon’ desert landscape, just an hour’s drive away.
Petra Excursion: Using Aqaba as a base for a full-day trip to the magnificent ancient city of Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Dramatically Arid Mountain Views: Taking a drive or hike into the surrounding desert mountains for breathtaking vistas of the Gulf of Aqaba.
Activities & Experiences
Go Scuba Diving or Snorkeling in the Red Sea: Explore the vibrant, world-renowned coral reefs, including the famous Cedar Pride shipwreck and the sunken C-130 Hercules Plane artificial reef.
Take a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour: For non-divers, enjoy the beauty of the coral reefs and marine life from the comfort of a glass-bottom boat tour around the Aqaba Marine Park.
Relax on South Beach (Al-Ghandour Beach): Spend a day lounging on the city’s public beach, known for its clear waters and easy access to snorkeling spots.
Visit the Aqaba Fort and Archaeological Museum: Step back in time at this historic fort, also known as the Mamluk Fort, and explore the nearby museum for artifacts dating back to the Bronze Age.
Stroll the Ayla Oasis & Marina: Explore the modern and upscale developments, dine at one of the waterfront restaurants, and enjoy the contemporary architecture of the marina.
Explore the Local Souk and Downtown: Wander through the traditional market for a genuine local experience. Shop for spices, souvenirs, traditional sweets, and fresh produce.
Go on a Sunset Cruise or Yacht Trip: Hire a boat for a peaceful sunset sail, offering stunning views of the coastal mountains of Jordan, Israel, and Saudi Arabia.
Experience the Wadi Rum Day Trip: Although inland, Aqaba is the main gateway. Book a 4×4 jeep tour to explore the dramatic desert landscapes, towering sandstone mountains, and Bedouin culture of the Valley of the Moon.
Try Authentic Seafood at a Local Restaurant: Indulge in fresh-caught Red Sea fish and local specialties, often prepared with traditional Jordanian spices.
Enjoy Water Sports (Jetskiing, Parasailing, Tubing): Take advantage of the clear, calm waters for various exciting water sports offered along the coastline.
Taste Test Local Sweets and Coffee: Visit a traditional café to sample local delicacies like Kunafeh (a sweet cheese pastry) and enjoy a cup of richly spiced Arabic coffee.
Local Tips & Transport
Walking is Central: Aqaba’s city center, main souk, and many restaurants are easily walkable. The city is relatively compact, making it pleasant to explore on foot.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available and affordable within the city. Ensure the driver uses the meter, or agree on a fare before starting the trip, especially from tourist hubs or hotels.
Ride-Sharing (e.g., Uber/Careem): These services are also available and can be a reliable, pre-priced alternative to street taxis.
South Beach Transport: Taxis or shared minibuses are the best way to get to the main snorkeling and dive spots at South Beach and the Aqaba Marine Park, which are a few kilometers outside the city center.
To/From Wadi Rum: You can book an organized tour, hire a private taxi, or take a JETT bus. The trip takes about one hour.
Dress Code (Respectful Attire): While Aqaba is more liberal than other parts of Jordan due to its resort status, it is still a conservative city.
- In Public Areas (Souk, Downtown): Both men and women should wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
- At Beaches/Resorts: Standard swimwear is acceptable in hotel pools and designated private beach areas. On public beaches, be more modest.
Tax-Free Status: Aqaba is a Special Economic Zone (ASEZA), meaning many goods are duty-free. This can make items like electronics, cigarettes, and local handicrafts good value.
Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is common and appreciated, especially for waiters and tour guides. For restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is standard.
Hidden Gems:
- Ayla Ruins: Near the modern Ayla development, these are the remains of the ancient Islamic city of Aqaba, predating the Mamluk Fort. They offer a quiet historical glimpse.
- The Dive Sites (Sunken Ship & Plane): These are internationally famous and are not just for expert divers. Many spots are shallow enough for a fantastic snorkeling experience, even close to the shore.
- Local Shawarma Stands: Look for small, non-touristy shops downtown for the best, most authentic, and incredibly cheap shawarma—a local staple.
Language: The official language is Arabic. While English is widely spoken in hotels, dive centers, and tourist shops, learning a few basic Arabic phrases (like Shukran for “thank you” and Marhaba for “hello”) will be warmly received.
Top Restaurants
Al Shami Restaurant [$15-$25] – A long-standing, very popular local restaurant in the city center known for authentic Jordanian dishes like Mansaf and perfectly grilled meats and kebabs.
Rakwet Kanaan Restaurant & Cafe [$15-$25] – Offers a cozy, authentic atmosphere, often frequented by locals for traditional Jordanian breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including delicious mezze and grills.
Hashem Son’s (Outlet in Aqaba) [$10-$20] – Famous for its classic, delicious, and budget-friendly traditional Levantine fare, especially high-quality falafel, hummus, and foul (fava bean stew).
Tikka Chicken Plus [$10-$20] – A local spot known for excellent, affordable Middle Eastern street food, particularly their flavorful grilled or roasted chicken and bread.
Shinawi [$15-$25] – A beloved local eatery that offers high-quality, traditional Jordanian food in a straightforward, no-frills setting, perfect for experiencing the local dining culture.
مطعم شيخ الحارة Sheikh Alhara Restaurant [$15-$25] – Offers a mix of traditional Arab cuisine with some Western influences, often praised for its generous portions and authentic Middle Eastern ambiance.
Syrian Palace Restaurant [$15-$25] – Known for its excellent Syrian and Jordanian cuisine, providing a rich selection of mezze, grills, and stews in a welcoming atmosphere.
7attouteh [$15-$25] – A local gem, especially in the Ayla area, offering delicious, authentic Jordanian flavors and a variety of Middle Eastern favorites.
Al Mohandes Cafeteria [$5-$15] – A popular spot for cheap eats and quick, hearty meals like excellent, flavorful shawarma and classic sandwiches, favored by locals.
Baba Za’atar [$10-$20] – A charming, casual place known for delicious baked goods, especially Manakish (flatbreads with toppings like cheese or thyme), perfect for a quick, traditional breakfast or snack.
Stacoza Restaurant [$15-$25] – While offering seafood (which is common locally), it’s known for its authentic Jordanian approach to cuisine, offering a wide array of local dishes beyond just fish.
Aurjwan Cafe & Restaurant [$20-$30] – Combines traditional Jordanian flavors with a modern, cozy dining setup, popular for both local and international dishes.
Al Marsa Restaurant [$20-$30] – Offers traditional Middle Eastern meals and is highly regarded by residents for its quality and authentic taste of the region’s cooking.
Rakwet Kanaan (The Second Location – more cafe feel) [$10-$20] – Provides a relaxed café atmosphere, serving excellent local snacks, simple meals, and traditional hot and cold drinks.
Dunya Restaurant [$15-$25] – A local option known for serving home-style Middle Eastern food, including popular daily dishes and a variety of fresh salads and appetizers.
Falafel Al-Saraya [$5-$10] – A dedicated street food stall or small shop that serves what many consider to be the best and freshest falafel sandwiches in the downtown area.
Abo Ali [$15-$25] – Known for excellent roasted or grilled meats and traditional chicken dishes, offering a simple and genuine taste of local cooking.
Shawarma Al Reem [$5-$10] – A go-to place for locals wanting a fast, late-night, and high-quality shawarma wrap with all the classic fillings.
Petra Sweets (for dessert) [$5-$15] – While not a restaurant, this spot is essential for local sweets like Knafeh (cheese pastry soaked in syrup) and Baklawa, a mandatory local dessert experience.
مطعم الحاج عمر – Haj Omar Restaurant [$15-$25] – A trusted spot in the city for traditional, hearty Middle Eastern dishes, particularly known for its great value and local popularity.
Captains Restaurant مطعم الكابتن [$30-$50] – Highly regarded for its fresh Red Sea catch, offering various preparation methods, including grilled and baked. It’s an essential seafood experience for visitors.
Floka Restaurant [$30-$50] – Known for its fresh catch of the day, offering a mix of traditional and slightly creative seafood dishes in an elegant, unpretentious setting.
Red Sea Grill (Mövenpick Resort & Residences) [$40-$70] – While in a resort, it is highly rated for its selection of the finest fresh local seafood specialties, prepared to taste, with stunning sea views (worth the splurge).
Alibaba Restaurant (for seafood) [$25-$45] – Popular among visitors and locals, serving excellent fresh fish and seafood, often with a view, alongside traditional Jordanian fare.
Khashoka Aqaba – خاشوكة العقبة [$30-$50] – Offers exquisite seafood dining in a charming seaside atmosphere, with a focus on fresh ingredients and local preparation.
Rakwet Al-Awameh [$25-$40] – Known for its fresh and delicious fish and seafood, cooked in the traditional local style with aromatic spices and herbs.
Hala Restaurant [$20-$35] – A more casual option for quality grilled fish and seafood platters, popular with families and local diners for a great value seafood experience.
Fish Fish Restaurant [$30-$50] – A dedicated seafood house offering an array of fresh Red Sea fish and shellfish, allowing you to choose your own catch to be prepared.
Al-Diwan Al-Manqal [$25-$40] – While also serving meat, this place excels with its grilled seafood options and its use of the traditional Levantine “manqal” (grill) method.
Stingray Seafood [$30-$50] – Offers a good selection of high-quality, fresh seafood with an emphasis on local preparation methods.
RED Restaurant and Lounge (Hyatt Regency Ayla) [$50-$80] – Located in the Ayla Marina Village, this spot offers refined European-inspired dishes, featuring expertly aged meats and seafood, with modern presentation and a sophisticated setting.
Tapas del Mar (Hyatt Regency Ayla) [$40-$60] – Brings the modern tapas concept to Aqaba, blending Spanish flavors with the freshness of the sea in a stylish, waterfront setting.
Kai (The Westin Saraya Aqaba Resort & Spa) [$40-$70] – Takes a contemporary approach to dining with an Asian-inspired menu and a chic design, offering a unique departure from local cuisine.
Mama Gaia (Ayla Oasis) [$40-$70] – Draws inspiration from the Mediterranean, particularly Sardinia, using local Jordanian products to create a fusion of authentic and modern flavors.
Kubba Levantin Restaurant (Al Manara Hotel) [$40-$60] – A family-friendly Middle Eastern venue that focuses on inventive dishes, celebrating local produce and traditional Levantine flavors with a contemporary twist.
Diwan The View Rooftop Lounge [$30-$50] – Located on a rooftop, offering panoramic views and a menu of exquisite dining options that blend Arab cuisine with Western influences in a modern lounge setting.
Cascades (Hyatt Regency Ayla) [$30-$50] – Specializes in Italian cuisine, but with a modern elegance and atmosphere, featuring wood-fired pizzas and fresh antipasti.
Amwaj (Al Manara Hotel) [$30-$50] – Offers a unique dining experience with a multi-cuisine menu and a focus on extraordinary ambiance and sunset views over the Red Sea.
Mirwas Cafe and Restaurant (Ayla Marina Village) [$25-$40] – While having Middle Eastern cuisine, its location and ambiance in the marina make it a modern, stylish spot for a meal.
The Olive Tree (Hyatt Regency Ayla) [$30-$50] – The resort’s main restaurant, offering a lavish international buffet and Mediterranean specialties with a modern, open dining concept.
Red Sea Grill (Mövenpick Resort & Residences) [$60-$90] – Offers a luxurious al-fresco dining experience with a focus on high-end, fresh seafood and impeccable service in a stunning seaside location.
Najel Restaurant (Mövenpick Tala Bay) [$50-$80] – Named after the local Red Sea Grouper, this restaurant offers a fusion of local Jordanian taste with international flare in a high-quality buffet and live-cooking setting.
RED Restaurant and Lounge (Hyatt Regency Ayla) [$70-$100] – Considered one of the top fine dining spots, known for its focus on in-house aged prime cuts and refined European-inspired dishes.
Kubba Levantin Restaurant (Al Manara Hotel) [$60-$90] – A destination for a refined Middle Eastern dining experience, utilizing the best local produce in traditional, yet elevated, preparations.
Mama Gaia (Ayla Oasis) [$50-$80] – Offers an authentic, fine-casual experience with Sardinian-inspired cuisine, focusing on the quality of ingredients and a romantic atmosphere.
The Bay Restaurant (InterContinental Aqaba) [$70-$100] – A high-end experience within a luxury hotel setting, often featuring international gourmet cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Al Shatt Restaurant (Kempinski Hotel) [$60-$90] – Offers a luxurious dining experience with a mix of international and regional specialties and stunning views of the Red Sea.
Babel (Tala Bay) [$50-$80] – A high-quality Lebanese restaurant that often provides a more refined and upscale version of traditional Levantine favorites.
Al-Manara’s Signature Restaurant [$80-$120] – Often features rotating high-end menus showcasing the best of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern culinary craft, known for its exceptional ingredients and service.
Royal Yacht Club Dining [$70-$100] – Offers an exclusive, high-end dining atmosphere with a focus on international cuisine and excellent service, with a view of the yachts and the sea.
B12 Beach Club & Lounge (Ayla) [$25-$45] – Offers a relaxed, bohemian beachside dining experience with a diverse menu of international dishes and a fun, lively atmosphere with waterfront views.
Suhaila (Connecting Through Cooking) [$40-$60] – A truly unique experience, often a cooking class combined with dining in a local home, offering an unparalleled insight into authentic Jordanian culture and food.
Mirchi Indian Restaurant [$20-$35] – A popular, highly-rated restaurant offering authentic Indian cuisine, a great break from the Middle Eastern flavors.
Romero Aqaba (for Italian) [$30-$50] – A well-regarded Italian restaurant with a lovely setting and views of the marina, known for its authentic pasta and pizza.
Sushi Corner [$25-$45] – A surprise find in the Middle East, offering a wide variety of fresh Japanese and Asian cuisine, providing a diverse dining option.
The Baky Bar [$20-$35] – Known for its excellent selection of international pub fare, burgers, and light bites, a great spot for a casual, non-local meal.
Pachi Pizza & Pasta [$15-$30] – Offers authentic Italian flavors with homemade pasta and wood-fired pizza, popular for a casual, high-quality international meal.
V5 Rooftop Lounge [$20-$40] – A lively spot known for its atmosphere, offering a creative menu of international appetizers and main courses alongside cocktails and views.
Jungle Bar [$20-$35] – A themed spot that offers a diverse menu of international fusion cuisine in a fun, distinctive setting.
The Pub [$20-$35] – A casual place with a menu focused on popular international comfort food and a relaxed, pub-like atmosphere.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Diwan The View Rooftop Lounge: Located on a rooftop in the Aqaba city center, this elegant lounge offers exquisite cocktails and a perfect vantage point to take in the stunning panoramic views of the city and the Red Sea.
Vista Lounge: Situated within the Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort in Ayla Oasis, this sophisticated lounge is known for its exquisite cocktails and breathtaking views of the lagoon and the Red Sea, offering an ultimate relaxation spot.
ORO Resto-Bar & Cigar: Found in the Marina Village of Ayla Oasis, this luxurious bar offers a selection of fine cigars and exquisite drinks in an atmosphere of relaxation and opulence.
Trio: A notable cocktail bar located in Aqaba city, which is praised for blending creativity and flavor in its drinks, contributing to the city’s vibrant nightlife experience.
Kegs: Experience a lively atmosphere and refreshing drinks at this popular spot in Aqaba, which is considered a must-visit for its vibrant nightlife.
BAR THIRTEEN: This popular establishment in downtown Aqaba is a vibrant nightlife spot where both locals and travelers enjoy a lively atmosphere and an extensive drink menu.
Martinis Lounge & Restaurant: Located in Aqaba city, this venue offers a vibrant atmosphere that complements its food and drink selection, making it a great spot for a night out.
700 Lounge: A bar in Aqaba with an elegant setting and stunning sea views, known for its exquisite drinks and light bites in a vibrant atmosphere.
Abu Nawwas Fun Pub: Found in Aqaba city, this spot is known for its vibrant atmosphere and delightful cocktails, perfect for socializing and unwinding.
The Lounge (Mövenpick Resort & Residences Aqaba): Located within the Mövenpick Resort in the Aqaba city center, this lounge offers a luxurious and relaxing atmosphere with exquisite cuisine and beautiful views of the Red Sea.
Al Nafoura Bar & Terrace: Situated in the majestic lobby of the Mövenpick Resort & Residences Aqaba on King Hussein Street, this terrace offers a wide variety of drinks, including champagne, fine wine, and rare spirits, with magnificent palm garden views.
Nasma Pool Bar: Located within a resort setting in Aqaba, this pool bar is an ideal spot to find tranquility and enjoy refreshing drinks with stunning views.
Aqaba Rock Lounge: Found with stunning sea views in Aqaba, this lounge is known for its exquisite cocktails and a lively, engaging atmosphere.
AM PM: A laid-back bar in Aqaba city that is perfect for travelers looking for a comfortable and casual spot to enjoy refreshing drinks and a vibrant setting.
Suzana Restaurant And Bar: Situated in the Tala Bay resort area, this is one of the few places in Tala Bay that provides a beautiful sea view along the coast, offering great food, drinks, and a cool, calm atmosphere.
The Bop Bar: Considered one of the most famous nightspots in Tala Bay Aqaba, located at the Mövenpick Resort & Spa. It features a live DJ playing music until the early hours and is known for its lively vibe, dance floor, and great beverage selection.
B12 Beach Club: Situated in the Ayla Oasis waterfront destination, this is often called the ‘it’ beach club in Aqaba. It offers all-day dining, great drinks, and fun activities, making it perfect for a vibrant day-to-night experience.
Mama Gaia Beach Club (OUM): A premium beach club in Ayla Oasis that transitions into a vibrant nightclub named OUM after sunset, offering panoramic views and a lively atmosphere perfect for dancing into the night.
Rover’s Return: An English-style pub and one of the best-known clubs in the Aqaba Gateway complex on King Hussein St., offering a large dance floor, lively atmosphere, and a cozy wooden furnished interior.
Crazy Elephant: One of the most famous nightclubs in Aqaba, known for decent music, a great crowd, and an amazing dance floor with fascinating lights that attract you to groove.
Saraya Beach Club: A luxurious oasis on the shore of the Red Sea in Saraya Aqaba, offering a beautiful setting by the swimming pools and white beaches of the central lagoon, with a bar and dining options for a high-end night out.
Berenice Beach Club: Located south of the city in the South Beach area, this popular beach club offers large pools, a full-service bar, and a lively, popular restaurant, which creates a perfect seaside clubhouse atmosphere.
Tala Bay Beach Club: Part of the integrated Tala Bay resort just south of the city, this club offers access to top-rate facilities, including pools, sunbeds, and a poolside bar, making it an excellent spot for a laid-back party atmosphere by the sea.
LA PLAGE BEACH CLUB: Located at the heart of the Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort in Ayla Oasis, this spot encourages visitors to relax, socialize, and energize with fun activities and an inviting beachside setting that extends into the evening.
The Royal Yacht Club Restaurant/Bar: While primarily a restaurant in Aqaba, the club’s bar area offers a more upscale, slightly more expensive setting for great food and wine, often serving as a sophisticated evening venue.